C.K. Nayudu Biography: Life Story, Career, Records, Family & Achievements

Introduction

Colonel Cottari Kanakaiya Nayudu, popularly known as C.K. Nayudu, holds the distinction of being India’s first-ever Test cricket captain. A powerful batsman and an inspiring leader, Nayudu was instrumental in putting Indian cricket on the world map during the 1930s. Revered for his stroke-making ability and his charisma on the field, he became a national hero at a time when India was still under British rule.

Personal Information

• Full Name: Colonel Cottari Kanakaiya Nayudu
• Date of Birth: 31 October 1895
• Birthplace: Nagpur, Central Provinces, British India (now Maharashtra, India)
• Died: 14 November 1967 (aged 72), Indore, Madhya Pradesh, India
• Nationality: Indian
• Zodiac Sign: Scorpio

Physical Appearance

• Height: 6 feet (183 cm)
• Weight: Approx. 80 kg
• Hair Color: Black (later grey)
• Eye Color: Dark Brown

Early Life & Family Background

Born in Nagpur, C.K. Nayudu was drawn to cricket during his schooling years. He quickly made a name for himself as a powerful hitter and an aggressive batsman, traits that stood out in an era dominated by defensive play. His rise coincided with the growing nationalist pride in India, making him one of the first cricketing icons of the country.

Domestic Career

• Represented Central Provinces and Berar, Holkar, and Hyderabad in Indian domestic cricket.
• Known for his long sixes and attacking stroke play.
• Continued playing first-class cricket well into his 50s, showing his immense passion for the game.

International Career

Debut Matches

• Test Debut: 25 June 1932 vs England at Lord’s (India’s first-ever Test match).

Career Highlights

• Played 7 Test matches, scoring 350 runs.
• Captained India in the historic 1932 Test debut at Lord’s against England.
• His leadership and fearless batting inspired future generations of Indian cricketers.

Records & Achievements

• India’s first Test captain (1932).
• Played first-class cricket for nearly 40 years, scoring over 11,000 runs.
• Famous for hitting massive sixes, including one that reportedly landed outside the Lord’s ground.
• Awarded the Padma Bhushan in 1956, one of India’s highest civilian honors.
• The CK Nayudu Lifetime Achievement Award, instituted by the BCCI, is named in his honor.

Personal Life

C.K. Nayudu came from a respectable family background and balanced his cricketing passion with a disciplined lifestyle. His military-style discipline and leadership earned him the honorary title of Colonel, which stuck with his name forever.

Retirement & Later Life

• Retired from international cricket in 1936, but continued playing first-class cricket until 1958, making him one of the longest-serving cricketers.
• Stayed active in cricket administration and mentoring until his passing in 1967.

Legacy

C.K. Nayudu is remembered as a trailblazer in Indian cricket, not just for being the first Test captain, but also for embodying the pride and spirit of a young nation. His aggressive batting, leadership, and long association with the sport laid the foundation for India’s cricketing journey. The BCCI’s CK Nayudu Lifetime Achievement Award ensures that his name continues to inspire future generations.

FAQs

Q1: Who was India’s first Test captain?
C.K. Nayudu was India’s first-ever Test captain in 1932.

Q2: How many Tests did Nayudu play?
He played 7 Test matches between 1932 and 1936.

Q3: What award is named after C.K. Nayudu?
The CK Nayudu Lifetime Achievement Award, instituted by the BCCI.

Q4: Did Nayudu play cricket after retirement from Tests?
Yes, he played first-class cricket until the age of 62 (1958).

Q5: Did C.K. Nayudu receive any national honors?
Yes, he was awarded the Padma Bhushan in 1956.

S